V2 Vocabulary Building Dictionary

endear

verb

Definition:
to cause to become attractive, liked, or lovable

Synonyms:
charm, attract

Antonyms:
repulse

Tips:
Endear literally means "to make dear," to appear charming or loveable. You may try to endear yourself to someone if you want to be liked or if you need the person to do you a favor. A person to whom you have endeared yourself may say to you, "You're such a dear." The related adjective, endearing refers to something or someone that is charming or attractive. For example, an endearing quality makes people attracted to you. Do NOT confuse endearing with its homonym enduring, which means "long lasting."

Usage Examples:

His gracious and gentlemanly behavior endeared him to her. (attracted)

Her child-like behavior was so endearing, I couldn’t help but smile. (charming) adjective

The dog was a scruffy mutt with a limp, which somehow made him even more endearing. (attractive, charming, likeable) adjective

He tried to endear himself to her with flowers and chocolate, but this just made her think he was a sap. (make himself liked)

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